This strongly hygroscopic white solid[2] is an intermediate in the formate potash process for the production of potassium.

[3] Potassium formate has also been studied as a potential environmentally friendly deicing salt for use on roads.

[6] A 52% solution of potassium formate has a freezing point of −60 °C (−76 °F).

[7] Potassium formate brines are sometimes used for heat transfer, despite being much more corrosive than many other liquid coolants, especially to zinc and aluminum but even to many steels,[8] though some formulations are compatible with aluminum and steels.

[9] Since 1995, potassium formate has been increasingly used in aqueous Drilling fluids to increase density, stabilize the hole, and improve drilling performance.